Vicksburg High School Gators running back DeCorey Knight Jr. was recognized during Monday’s regular meeting of the Vicksburg Board of Mayor and Aldermen after breaking the school’s all-time rushing record during the 2024 season.

Knight’s total of 2,960 rushing yards and 28 scores in three varsity seasons with the Gators breaks a 45-year-old record held by Sylvester Stamps, who went on to play six seasons in the NFL. Stamps held the record of 2,946 yards set between 1977 and 1979.

Stamps himself said Knight’s accomplishment is a testament to not only his athleticism, but also his work ethic on and off the football field.

“Congratulations, DeCorey Knight Jr. You have truly made your mark by becoming the leading rusher in the history of the Vicksburg High School Gators,” Stamps said. “Your exceptional talent and unwavering determination have set you apart, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel and shine even brighter in the future. Keep pushing the limits.”

Knight, a senior at VHS, broke the record when he rushed for 154 yards and a touchdown in a 41-27 loss to Columbus Nov. 1.

Vicksburg’s Ward 1 Alderman Thomas “T.J.” Mayfield, who calls games for VHS on WVBG Radio, said covering Knight’s accomplishments has been a fulfilling experience.

“Recently I mentioned that one of my favorite things to do was, on Friday nights, be on the radio for Vicksburg High School football,” Mayfield said prior to presenting Knight with a plaque Monday morning. “This young man was a joy to watch; a joy to commentate. It was really special to watch him on the field every Friday night.”

Knight, who played his freshman season at Warren Central before transferring to Vicksburg, also reached another milestone by becoming the 13th Warren County player to reach the 3,000-yard mark overall. Including his freshman season, Knight has 3,028 yards and 29 touchdowns. His totals at WC do not count toward the Vicksburg High career total.